A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Istanbul vs. Arles for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Backpackers

Should you visit Istanbul or Arles?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Arles, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Istanbul and Arles: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Arles?

You'll generally find more things to do in Istanbul than Arles. Istanbul is bigger than Arles, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Istanbul is more touristy than Arles and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. Also, Istanbul is famous for The Blue Mosque. Arles is well known for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Istanbul different from Arles?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arles and Istanbul. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Istanbul or Arles?

Both Istanbul and Arles have terrific landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

The museums and tourist attractions in Arles are world-renowned. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

Is the Food Better in Istanbul or Arles? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Arles. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul is well known for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

If you're looking for night time activities Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Arles both have terrific historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Arles has a world-famous historical area. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Arles?

Istanbul is well known for its shopping areas. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Istanbul. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Arles. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Families?

Istanbul is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Istanbul is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Arles are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Arles makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Students?

Istanbul is well known for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Istanbul or Arles Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Istanbul is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Istanbul can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

While Arles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

Is Istanbul or Arles a more walkable city?

Istanbul and Arles both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Istanbul is very walkable. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

Arles is a very walkable city. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Istanbul Worth Visiting? and Is Arles Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arles or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Arles?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Istanbul or Arles to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Istanbul than Arles because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-2 days is enough time in Arles.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Arles. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Istanbul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Istanbul than Arles. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Istanbul that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Istanbul than Arles if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Arles?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful town of Arles offers food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Arles?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Arles is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Arles, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Istanbul or Arles?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Arles is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Arles?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Arles is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that museums is why people visit. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Istanbul and Arles, we can see that Arles is more expensive. And not only is Istanbul much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Istanbul would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Istanbul and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Arles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arles than you might in Istanbul.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Istanbul Expensive? and Is Arles Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Arles?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Arles. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul and Arles, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Istanbul or Arles?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Istanbul or Arles in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Arles. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Arles because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Arles. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 24°C (74°F), and Arles fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Arles during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 354 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Arles. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Arles receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Arles in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Arles. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Arles this time of year.

Istanbul is around the same temperature as Arles in the autumn. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Arles fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Arles. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 178 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Arles. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Arles. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Arles receives 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Arles in the Winter?

Both Arles and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Istanbul is cooler than Arles. Typically, the winter temperatures in Istanbul in January average around 6°C (43°F), and Arles averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Arles during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Arles receives 146 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Arles. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Arles in the Spring?

Both Arles and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Arles in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Arles. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 13°C (55°F), and Arles fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

In Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Arles. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Arles receives 218 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Arles. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Arles receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Arles and Istanbul